About
German musician and music teacher best known as the father of one of history's greatest composers.
Before Fame
He was the son of a German court musician and began performing for the court himself as a singer. He was also proficient in the zither, violin, clavichord, and harpsichord.
Trivia
He suffered from alcoholism and was a violent taskmaster when it came to his famous son's musical training.
Family Life
He married Maria Magdalena Keverich, the daughter of the Archbishop of Trier. Together, they had three children who survived.
Associated With
His oldest son was Moonlight Sonata composer Ludwig van Beethoven.
